CD Reviews

A "Must" CD for Kenton fans

John Zarro | 03/23/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you're like me, a Stan Kenton fan for over fifty years, or if you've never before heard the music of Stan Kenton, you owe it to yourself to add this two CD package to your collection. Originally released as a boxed set of 45 RPM recordings by Capitol Records in 1952, this collection of 50 tracks covers the Kenton era from its formative years in the early 40's through the period of what many consider his best of all bands. The later tracks feature such personnel as Maynard Ferguson, Conte Condoli, Lee Konitz, Zoot Sims, Frank Rosolino, and Stan Levy to mention but a few. A feature of this collection is an eleven to twelve minute prologue by Kenton in which he discusses the inception and development of his music, thoughts that are as timely today as the sounds of his band - especially on CD Two - the greatest big band of all time! Review by John Zarro"

A Must Have for Kenton Fans

Robert Dolan | Clarendon Hills, IL USA | 10/27/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I owned this set on vinyl and hesitated playing it too often in fear of getting the records scratched. For me, "The Kenton Era" is the most important piece I have in my extensive Kenton collection. The best version of Stan's theme, "Artistry In Rhythm" is to be found on this album collection. Be very careful of buying this CD set as it will take control of you for the rest of your life."

The Kenton Era

King Edward | Syracuse, New York | 07/21/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This 2 CD Set consisting of 47 titles and a Prologue(by Stan) were most interesting. Of these 47 titles there were 22 I had never heard before. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the Music as well Stan's verbal history of the Band and his "Innovations to Modern Music Styling". I definitely agree that this Album should be a must for any and all Stan Kenton Fans."